I laugh, and cough, again. Curran and I went strong most of the night. We managed some sleep, but not a lot. “Did I tell you I’m proud of you?” he asks, his hand lowering to claim my backside.
“You did, but I like hearing it,” I say, taking a moment to enjoy his grin. “Your family was sweet to attend my commencement.” My smile widens, remembering how they cheered for me when my name was announced at the ceremony. My father hadn’t bothered coming. If it weren’t for Curran and his family, I would have accepted my juris doctorate alone.
“Declan would have been there, too,” he says, pressing a kiss along my ear. “He feels bad he missed it.”
My fingers run along his jaw as I speak softly. “He has a lot going on. Defense begins their case tomorrow. After that, it’ll be up to the jury to decide Montenegro’s fate.”
Curran laughs a little. “Yeah. I don’t think those saps stand a chance. The case Deck presented for the prosecution was epic. I knew my brother was good, but I have to admit, he blew me away.”
I know what Curran means and quietly agree. Declan is a renowned prosecutor in the area. But to witness his litigation skills firsthand was positively mesmerizing. His presentation, startling quickness, and skills in court are spectacles to behold. And with the Associated Press and all the major networks covering the trial, he’s receiving national attention.
I adjust my hold over Curran. “Your brother has exceeded everyone’s expectations. But keep in mind that the defense is tough, and the best money can buy. They’re going to fight tooth and nail, especially if those threats against them are valid.”
“I get it, but you have to admit, Deck’s a goddamn gladiator and the courtroom is his arena. Shit, he didn’t show any mercy.”
Curran calls him a gladiator. To me, Declan is more a Titan of Greek mythology. And while the defense may be gods in their own right, this time I’m certain the Titan is going to win the war. “He’s really amazing,” I admit.
“More than me?” he asks, nibbling on my neck.
I laugh. “I confess, professionally I’m deeply in awe of your brother. Personally, you’re who I love, and everything I want.”
“Good.” My body settles against him when he snuggles me closer. “Hey, Tess,” he says, his voice growing serious. “I don’t want you to go back to your place anymore. I want you with me, permanently.”
For the most part, I already am, but his words make everything so official. I’ve been looking forward to letting go of my past and racing into the future with Curran. Yet, as much as I want us to, I’m scared. Everything happening between us is beautiful, and more than I could have dreamed of. But it’s happening so quickly, and bringing on major changes in my life.
My past is horrible. There’s no question. But it’s also familiar, and something so familiar is hard to abandon despite the pain it’s caused.
Curran’s hand skims along my spine when he senses my hesitation. “Tess, you’re done. You graduated. There’s nothing to tie you to your father anymore. Say you’ll be here for good when I get back from my shift.”
“Okay,” I whisper. Although I smile, my eyes manage to sting.
Curran wipes my tears and kisses me, taking his time until he remembers he has someplace to be. “Damnit,” he says when he glances at the clock. “I gotta head out.” He slips out of bed. “Do you need my truck today?”
I hate to ask. “Would you mind? I’m supposed to have lunch with Sofia and Wren, but with Finn’s upcoming match, it might be easier for me to meet them at the gym.”
“Sure. Whatever you want, babe.” He hurries into the bathroom. “Hey. We need to get you your own wheels,” he calls out. “Sofe’s brother is a mechanic, and usually fixes up cars to sell. Mateo can hook us up with something good. I’ll call him during my break and see what he has.”
Curran starts the water for the shower just as I’m rolling out of bed. I spread out the sheets. “Are you sure? I’m worried about costs.”